The monumental child abuse scandal in the Catholic Church is providing endless fuel for its detractors. But the pain and outrage of millions of loyal Catholics is just as real - and can be a harbinger of deep change.

As the global sex abuse crisis in the Catholic Church deepens, standards of accountability must be the norm for all, including the pope and the hierarchy, says Bridget Mary Meehan. Civil investigation, active repentance within the Church and an independent truth commission is now needed.

The last remaining bishop mentioned in a damning official report on the systematic failure of the Catholic Church in Ireland to deal with child abuse in its institutions, is facing insistent and repeated calls to step down.